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Can't be a bigger rookie than me

I would like to get into DIY more to save money and learn a few useful things. I would like to get better at fixing every day home stuff like clogs and such. What is the best way to start?

Welcome!
I vaguely remember an old Dagwood comic- They had a cookie jar filled with honey do's. He had to pick one out and get 'er done.
I suggest the same. Make a list of "necessary items" and a "wish list" and have at it.
Lurk and search around here and absorb the info- ask questions when you want. The folks here are very helpful.
One thing that would help is adding your general location to to your user profile.

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Can't be a bigger rookie than me

Welcome Vedman

We all started somewhere I am still in the learning process myself. The advice that you can get on this site is incredible. Still amazes me just how much time people are willing to give. You have definitely come to the right place.

Just a note on the books and I am not referencing any brand, just check to make sure if buying used books that they have not been recalled. I know there are some wiring ones that were pulled. A simple google search will help you out if you are unsure.

Can't be a bigger rookie than me

I have stacks of books and magizines I've never even looked at.
Today you can find any info you could even needs with just a few taps on the keyboard.
Can even watch a vidio on YouTube for free on just about any subject on the planet.

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Can't be a bigger rookie than me

Quote:

Originally Posted by joecaption

I have stacks of books and magizines I've never even looked at.
Today you can find any info you could even needs with just a few taps on the keyboard.
Can even watch a vidio on YouTube for free on just about any subject on the planet.

I agree you can find many, many good videos.

The only problem is, as a rookie, how do you really know the video is any good?

Anyone with internet access and a cell phone can post a video with little or no regard as to whether or not the information is accurate.

With books, electronic format or printed, you at least know that the publisher spent some money to produce it, usually taking the care to have it fact checked through several layers of people.

When I suggest to read, I was also referring to past threads on this forum and others. I should have clarified that.

The Following User Says Thank You to oldhouseguy For This Useful Post:

Can't be a bigger rookie than me

The only problem is, as a rookie, how do you really know the video is any good?

Anyone with internet access and a cell phone can post a video with little or no regard as to whether or not the information is accurate.

With books, electronic format or printed, you at least know that the publisher spent some money to produce it, usually taking the care to have it fact checked through several layers of people.

When I suggest to read, I was also referring to past threads on this forum and others. I should have clarified that.

Don't just watch one video over something you are wanting to learn how to do. After you watch a few videos over the same subject, you start getting a better idea. From there, google the techniques they use and other techniques, or keywords of what they're doing. Also search here.

Then, google for how-to articles (text and pictures) and compare to the videos you saw and everything else you read. Use your best judgement to determine what's the best approach while keeping safety in mind. If you're still unsure, then it's best to get a group opinion from those that have already done it (here).

Can't be a bigger rookie than me

Quote:

Originally Posted by joecaption

But ha if you want to buy some books I'll sell mine cheap.

Your only selling them because your eye site is so bad now from old age......(have any on DIY houses?)

Vedman....besides here, there is lots of info on the web....but be cautious about 'how to' videos that are pushing a particular brand. They are going to say "This is the best way" because they want you to buy their product...there are exceptions....Kerdi is one that comes to mind....except for price, you won't hear anything bad about it....

Anyway....read the posts....after awhile you will see who the experts are in each field...

JoeCaption - jack of all trades...at his age, been around long enough to have done it all..

TheEplumber - Plumbing....

Daniel Holzman - A REAL engineer....

BeenThere - HVAC stuff....

BigJim - Another old guy who has seen tools we only see in a museum...I think he knows how to cut wood....

JazMan - Floors....specifically tile......

Gary in WA - Has more links to stuff than I have to jeep sites...don't know how it keeps up with them...

Oh'Mike - Still trying to figure out what he does....

FrenchElectrician - Knows electrons on both sides of the Atlantic....just one of many electrical guys here....

So, basically, when you see the above guys write something...your getting a straight answer.....

I know I've left out some guys.....but stick around long enough...you will get to know them.....

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Even if you are on the right track, you will still get run over if you just sit there.

Can't be a bigger rookie than me

I would like to get into DIY more to save money and learn a few useful things. I would like to get better at fixing every day home stuff like clogs and such. What is the best way to start?

research is one of the first steps coming here is part of it. second learn to be mechanical, Try and learn all you can about everything that goes in to home construction. I guess that falls under research too.
3 Don't be afraid to really screw things up. It is going to happen so don't worry.